“All that counts against Viktoria is the victory,” said the Dutchman of tomorrow's match at San Siro.

“The three points would be crucial in helping us continue our race towards the knockout rounds.

“Can we win the Champions League? Milan are a great side, so reaching the Final and winning the trophy is our objective.”

There is an injury crisis at the club that has ruled out Alexandre Pato, Robinho, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Gennaro Gattuso, Mathieu Flamini, Philippe Mexes and possibly Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Luca Antonini, Massimo Ambrosini and Daniele Bonera.

With the squad so limited in recent weeks, Cassano has been doing over-time in positions he is not necessarily familiar with.

“When he came here, the whole squad put itself at his disposal. Antonio is repaying the faith the group had in him.

“His attitude is excellent. To play at Milan, you need to avoid certain behaviour. He understood that and his performances on the pitch speak for him.”

Seedorf has also been forced to play more than expected, though at 35 he scored their decisive winner against Cesena on Saturday.

The veteran Dutchman is again expected to start against Viktoria Plzen on Wednesday evening.